Medical treatment simulation devices

ABSTRACT

Medical treatment simulation systems and devices are disclosed. One device includes an overlay, a simulated treatment structure, at least one feedback device, and at least one processor. The overlay is configured to be secured to the live subject and to cover at least a portion of a body of the live subject. The simulated treatment structure is configured to simulate a structure associated with the medical procedure. The at least one feedback device is configured to provide a feedback signal to the live subject. The at least one processor is connected to the simulated treatment structure and the at least one feedback device. The processor is programmed to operate the feedback device to provide the feedback signal based upon input generated from interaction between a treatment provider and the simulated treatment structure. The disclosed devices may be used to simulate intravenous, catheter, defibrillation, and/or thoracic treatments.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to U.S. Patent Application No.62/080,439, filed Nov. 17, 2014; to U.S. Patent Application No.62/080,440, filed Nov. 17, 2014; to U.S. Patent Application No.62/080,444, filed Nov. 17, 2014; to U.S. Patent Application No.62/081,042, filed Nov. 18, 2014; to U.S. Patent Application No.62/128,100, filed Mar. 4, 2015; and to U.S. Patent Application No.62/145,018, filed Apr. 9, 2015, the contents of each of which areincorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to medical simulations, and moreparticularly, to simulation devices for training care providers toprovide medical treatment.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Conventionally, the training process for nursing or medical studentsrelated to patient care and treatment may employ mannequins that do notprovide realistic patient feedback. This lack of feedback makes itdifficult for nursing or medical students to gain the education neededto perform proper medical treatments or care when working with actualpatients. Accordingly, improved systems and devices are desired fortraining medical care providers to provide treatment.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Aspects of the present invention are medical treatment simulationsystems and devices.

In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, an intravenoustreatment simulation device is disclosed. The intravenous treatmentsimulation device includes an overlay, at least one tube, a reservoir,and a processor. The overlay is configured to be secured to a subject.The overlay has a needle-resistant inner layer and at least oneconductive layer positioned outside of the needle resistant inner layer.The at least one tube is positioned within the overlay beneath the atleast one conductive layer. The reservoir is adapted to store a fluid.The reservoir is coupled to provide the fluid to the at least one tube.The processor is coupled to the at least one conductive layer. Theprocessor is configured to detect an insertion of a needle through theat least one conductive layer and generate a signal upon the detectionof the insertion of the needle.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, a cathetertreatment simulation device is disclosed. The catheter treatmentsimulation device includes an overlay, a tube, a sensor, a reservoir, avalve, and a processor. The overlay is configured to be secured to asubject. The overlay comprises an opening sized to receive a catheter.The tube is coupled with the opening in the overlay. The sensor iscoupled to the tube. The sensor is operable to detect an insertion ofthe catheter into the tube. The reservoir is adapted to store a fluid.The reservoir is coupled to provide the fluid to the tube. The valve ispositioned to control a flow of the fluid between the reservoir and thetube. The processor is coupled to the sensor. The processor isconfigured to detect the insertion of the catheter into the tube beyonda predetermined threshold and to open the valve upon the detection ofthe insertion of the catheter into the tube beyond the predeterminedthreshold.

In accordance with yet another aspect of the present invention, adefibrillation treatment simulation device is disclosed. Thedefibrillation treatment simulation device includes a housing, a displaycoupled to the housing, one or more input devices coupled to thehousing, and a processor within the housing. The display is operable todisplay an image to a user. The one or more input devices are operableby the user to simulate applying a defibrillation signal to a subject.The processor is programmed to generate a signal to the user that thedefibrillation signal has been applied to the subject and to display asimulated patient heart rhythm on the display.

In accordance with still another aspect of the present invention, athoracic treatment simulation device is disclosed. The thoracictreatment simulation device includes an overlay, a reservoir, a motor,and a processor. The overlay is configured to be secured to a subject.The overlay covers at least a portion of a torso of the subject andcomprises an opening. The reservoir is coupled with the opening. Themotor is coupled to the reservoir. The motor is operable to periodicallypump air into and out of the reservoir via the opening. The processor iscoupled to the motor. The processor is configured to operate the motorto pump the air into and out of the reservoir in accordance with asimulated breathing pattern of the subject.

In accordance with yet another aspect of the present invention, a devicefor facilitating simulating performance of medical procedure on a livesubject is disclosed. The device includes an overlay, a simulatedtreatment structure, at least one feedback device, and at least oneprocessor. The overlay is configured to be secured to the live subjectand to cover at least a portion of a body of the live subject. Thesimulated treatment structure is configured to simulate a structureassociated with the medical procedure. The at least one feedback deviceis configured to provide a feedback signal to the live subject. The atleast one processor is connected to the simulated treatment structureand the at least one feedback device. The processor is programmed tooperate the feedback device to provide the feedback signal based uponinput generated from interaction between a treatment provider and thesimulated treatment structure.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention is best understood from the following detailed descriptionwhen read in connection with the accompanying drawings, with likeelements having the same reference numerals. When a plurality of similarelements are present, a single reference numeral may be assigned to theplurality of similar elements with a small letter designation referringto specific elements. When referring to the elements collectively or toa non-specific one or more of the elements, the small letter designationmay be dropped. This emphasizes that according to common practice, thevarious features of the drawings are not drawn to scale unless otherwiseindicated. On the contrary, the dimensions of the various features maybe expanded or reduced for clarity. Included in the drawings are thefollowing figures:

FIG. 1 is an image illustrating an exemplary medical treatmentsimulation device in accordance with aspects of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an exemplary sensor layout of themedical treatment simulation device of FIG. 1 relative to a humansubject;

FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an exemplary audio feedback layout ofthe medical treatment simulation device of FIG. 1 relative to a humansubject;

FIG. 4 is an image illustrating an exemplary tracheostomy structure andsensor layout of the medical treatment simulation device of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is an image illustrating an alternative exemplary tracheostomystructure and sensor layout of the medical treatment simulation deviceof FIG. 1;

FIGS. 6A and 6B are diagrams illustrating an exemplary surface layer ofthe medical of the medical treatment simulation device of FIG. 1;

FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an exemplary fluid feedback system ofthe medical treatment simulation device of FIG. 1; and

FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an exemplary intravenous treatmentsimulation device in accordance with aspects of the present invention;

FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a cross-section of an overlay of theintravenous treatment simulation device of FIG. 8;

FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a fluid flow path of the intravenoustreatment simulation device of FIG. 8;

FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an exemplary catheter treatmentsimulation device in accordance with aspects of the present invention;

FIG. 12 is an image illustrating genitalia of the exemplary cathetertreatment simulation device of FIG. 11;

FIGS. 13A and 13B are diagrams illustrating a force sensor of theexemplary catheter treatment simulation device of FIG. 11 inuncompressed and compressed configurations, respectively;

FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating an exemplary defibrillation treatmentsimulation device in accordance with aspects of the present invention;

FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating an exemplary thoracic treatmentsimulation device in accordance with aspects of the present invention;

FIG. 16 is an image illustrating an overlay of the thoracic treatmentsimulation device of FIG. 15; and

FIG. 17 is an image illustrating a pressure unit of the thoracictreatment simulation device of FIG. 15.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Aspects of the invention are described herein with reference tosimulating specific medical treatments. However, it will be understoodby one of ordinary skill in the art that the exemplary devices describedherein may be used to simulate treatment of a variety of medicalconditions, and is not limited to any particular treatment disclosedherein. Other medical treatments suitable for simulation with thedisclosed devices will be known to one of ordinary skill in the art fromthe description herein.

The exemplary devices disclosed herein may be particularly suitable forproviding an enhanced level of feedback to the medical care providerrelative to conventional training devices. Audio and/or haptic feedbackmay be provided to the care provider during treatment in order toreinforce proper techniques. Likewise, this feedback may be provided tocorrect treatment errors that the care provider may otherwise struggledto detect during the simulated treatment. The provision of feedbackusing the exemplary devices of the present invention may desirablyimprove the ability of medical care providers to comfortably andeffectively treat patients.

Exemplary Tracheostomy Treatment Simulation Device

With reference to the drawings, FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary medicaltreatment simulation device 100 in accordance with aspects of thepresent invention. Device 100 is usable to train medical care providersto treat tracheostomy patients. In general, device 100 includes anoverlay 110, a tracheostomy structure 120, one or more tubes 130, atleast one sensor 140, and at least one feedback device 150. Additionaldetails of device 100 are described below.

Overlay 110 is configured to be secured to a subject who is playing therole of the patient. When secured to the subject, overlay 110 isconfigured to cover the subject's neck and upper torso. In an exemplaryembodiment, overlay 110 is shaped like a patient's neck and upper torso,as shown in FIGS. 1-3. Shaping overlay 110 as described above desirablylimits the size of overlay 110, and allows the profile of overlay 110 toclosely conform to the body of the subject, thereby allowing the subjectto portray a tracheostomy patient.

Overlay 110 may be formed from multiple pieces that connect to define anenclosure for the components of device 100. In an exemplary embodiment,overlay 110 is a housing formed from a front shell 112 a and a rearshell 112 b, as shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 1 shows the inside surfaces ofboth front shell 112 a and rear shell 112 b. Front shell 112 a isconfigured to be removably connected to rear shell 112 b to form overlay110. Shells 112 a and 112 b may be attached, for example, by straps,buttons, snaps, or any other structures known in the art. In anexemplary embodiment, shells 112 a and 112 b are attached via snaps 114provided at the upper and lower ends of the shells 112 a and 112 b.

In an exemplary embodiment, overlay 110 may be formed from threeseparate components designed to best simulate the body of a tracheostomypatient. The pieces include the attachable hard shells 112 a and 112 b,a soft and pliable front surface material intended to simulate thepatient's skin (“artificial skin”), and a soft back surface material forproviding comfort to the subject wearing overlay 110. The operationalcomponents of device 100 (e.g. sensors and feedback devices) areprovided within the hard shells of overlay 110, which thereby providesprotection for these components and helps conceal wiring and otheritems.

An exemplary embodiment of the artificial skin layer 180 is shown inFIGS. 6A and 6B. The artificial skin layer 180 may include sounddampening material 181 in order to dampen sounds generated withinoverlay 110, as will be discussed below in greater detail. Theartificial skin may further provide layers of materials on the outsideof one or both of hard shells 112 a and 112 b for simulating thepatient's body. In an exemplary embodiment, the layers of materialinclude memory foam 182, PVC 183, and a nylon elastane layer 184.Alternatively, the artificial skin may comprise silicone, with aninterior layer of memory foam positioned adjacent the subject's body forcomfort. It will be understood that the selection, order, and thicknessof layers of artificial skin layer 180 shown in FIG. 6B is provided forthe purpose of illustration, and is not intended to be limiting. Othersuitable materials for use in simulating a patient's skin will begenerally known to one of ordinary skill in the art from the descriptionherein.

The layers of artificial skin 180 may be attached to the edges of thehard shells of overlay 110 via one or more attachment mechanisms.Suitable attachment mechanisms include, for example, hook-and-loopfasteners 185, anchors 186, adhesives, or double-sided tape 187, asshown in FIG. 6A. Other suitable attachment mechanisms will be known toone of ordinary skill in the art from the description herein.

Rear shell 112 b further includes a plurality of straps 116 for securingoverlay 110 to a subject. In an exemplary embodiment, rear shell 112 bincludes a pair of straps configured to encircle the subject'sshoulders, as shown in FIG. 1. Straps 116 are usable to secure device100 to the subject during the simulated treatment. Rear shell 112 b mayfurther include a foam layer on the rear thereof, in order to improvethe comfort of the subject wearing overlay 110.

It will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art that rearshell 112 b may be omitted. In such an embodiment, straps may extendfrom front shell 112 a, and the interior components of overlay 110 mayall be coupled to front shell 112 a.

Tracheostomy structure 120 is provided on overlay 110. Structure 120 isdesigned to simulate the structures implanted in an actual tracheostomypatient. Accordingly, structure 120 is provided on the neck portion ofoverlay 110. In an exemplary embodiment, structure 120 includes atracheostomy faceplate 122, and a tracheostomy tube 124 attachedthereto. A suitable tracheostomy structure 120 for use with the presentinvention is provided in FIG. 4 for the purpose of illustration.

While in this embodiment structure 120 relates to tracheostomytreatment, it will be understood that the invention is not so limited.Other suitable structures for simulating medical treatments will beknown to one of ordinary skill in the art from the description herein.

Tubes 130 are positioned within overlay 110, and connected totracheostomy structure 120. Tubes 130 are designed to simulate theairways of an actual tracheostomy patient. Accordingly, tubes 130 have ashape and size corresponding to the bronchial tubes of a patient. In anexemplary embodiment, tubes 130 include a first length of tubing 132leading to a bifurcation 134, and a pair of tubes 136 a and 136 bextending from the bifurcation. An exemplary layout of tubes 130 withinoverlay 110 is shown by diagram in FIGS. 2 and 3. During the simulatedmedical treatment, the care provider may be asked to insert a suctiontube through tracheostomy structure 120 and into tubes 130, in order tosimulate drainage of a patient's lungs 130.

Sensor 140 is coupled to tracheostomy structure 120. Sensor 140 detectsany manipulation of tracheostomy structure 120 during the simulatedtreatment of the subject. Examples of manipulations of tracheostomystructure 120 are set forth below.

In one exemplary embodiment, the sensor includes a normal force sensor140 a. In this embodiment, sensor 140 a is configured to detect a forceon tracheostomy structure 120 during the simulated treatment. The forcemay be a force normal to the tracheostomy structure (e.g., normal totracheostomy faceplate 122 in FIG. 4). Sensor 140 a may be an electricalforce sensor positioned behind tracheostomy faceplate 122 and configuredto detect a normal force on tracheostomy faceplate 122, as shown in FIG.4. In actual tracheostomy patients, excessive force on a tracheostomyfaceplate (e.g., a normal force in excess of 2 lbs.) can be a source ofdiscomfort. Accordingly, the detection of force on tracheostomystructure 120 may be desirable in order train care providers to limitexcessive force on structure 120 and prevent discomfort in actualpatients.

In the above embodiment, the force sensors used are force-sensitiveresistors (FSRs). FSRs are dynamic resistors that have nearly infiniteresistance when no force is applied. The resistivity of the FSRdecreases, non-linearly, as the force applied increases. In thisembodiment, the voltage measured across the sensor may be converted intoa detection of an applied force on tracheostomy structure 120.

In another exemplary embodiment, the sensor includes a rotation sensor140 b. In this embodiment, one or more force sensors 140 b areconfigured to detect a rotation of tracheostomy structure 120 during thesimulated treatment. The rotation of tracheostomy structure 120 may bean axial rotation of tracheostomy faceplate 122, as shown by a blockarrow in FIG. 4. Sensor 140 b may include a pair of force sensorspositioned on opposed rotatable projections behind tracheostomyfaceplate 122, as shown in FIG. 4, such that rotation of the faceplate122 in either direction provides a force on the adjacent force sensor.The amount of rotation of the tracheostomy faceplate 122 may be measuredby determining the corresponding force detected by sensor 140 b (whichincreases in a determinable manner as rotational displacementincreases). In actual tracheostomy patients, as with force, excessiverotation of a tracheostomy faceplate (e.g., an axial rotation in excessof 4 degrees) can also be a source of discomfort. Accordingly, thedetection of rotation of tracheostomy structure 120 may be desirable inorder train care providers to limit excessive rotation on structure 120and prevent discomfort in actual patients.

In another exemplary embodiment, the sensor includes a spring-basedsensor 140 c. In this embodiment, the spring-based sensor 140 c isconfigured to detect a force on tracheostomy structure 120 during thesimulated treatment. The force may be a force normal to the tracheostomystructure (e.g., normal to tracheostomy faceplate 122 in FIG. 5). Sensor140 c may be a mechanical force sensor that is configured to detect anormal force on tracheostomy faceplate 122 as that force is transmittedthrough a spring 141 coupled to tracheostomy faceplate 122, as shown inFIG. 5. For example, the sensor may include an electric circuit that iskept open by a spring having a spring constant that corresponds to theresponse of a human throat. When the force threshold is exceeded, thecircuit closes, thereby signaling excessive force received by thetracheostomy structure 120. Coupling of tracheostomy structure 120 to aspring-based sensor as shown in FIG. 5 may be desirable in order toprovide realistic movement of tracheostomy structure 120 during thesimulated treatment by the care provider.

The spring-based sensor 140 c may further include a circuit that isadapted to be closed during excessive force on tracheostomy structure120. In an exemplary embodiment, the spring-based sensor 140 c includescircuit contacts that are spaced a predetermined distance apart byspring 141. When an excessive force is applied to tracheostomy faceplate122 (for example), spring 141 is compressed, and the circuit contactsare closed. Closing of the circuit contacts may function toautomatically operate one or more feedback device 150, so that feedbackis provided as soon as the excessive force is detected.

In addition to providing one or more sensors 140 coupled to tracheostomystructure 120, device 100 may further include one or more sensors 142coupled to tubes 130. In an exemplary embodiment, sensor 142 is a forcesensor coupled to tubes 130 to detect any contact between an insertedsuction tube and the inner wall of tubes 130 during the simulatedtreatment. In a particularly preferred embodiment, sensor 142 is a forcesensor coupled to the bifurcation 134 of tubes 130 to detect contactwith the bifurcation 134, where contact with the bifurcation 134 isdetermined to be any force above a predetermined amount (e.g., in excessof 0.5 lbs.). In actual tracheostomy patients, such contact with thepatient's bronchial tubes can cause irritation. Accordingly, thedetection of contact on bifurcation 134 may be desirable in order traincare providers to limit such contact and provide effective treatment totracheostomy patients.

The above examples of types and locations of sensors 140 are providedfor the purposes of illustration, and are not intended to be limiting.It will be understood that any combination of the disclosed sensors maybe used, and that additional types and locations of sensors may be used,without departing from the scope of the invention. Other possiblesensors for use in device 100 would be known to one of ordinary skill inthe art.

Feedback device 150 is also coupled to overlay 110. Feedback device 150is configured to provide feedback to the user of device 100 (i.e. thecare provider) based on the manipulation detected by sensor 140.Feedback may be provided when the manipulation detected by sensor 140exceeds a predetermined threshold. For example, feedback may be providedto the user when the force on tracheostomy structure 120 exceeds apredetermined limit, or when tracheostomy structure 120 is rotated morethan a predetermined amount. Additionally, feedback may be provided tothe user when contact of tubes 130 is detected.

In an exemplary embodiment, feedback device 150 is a vibrating motor.The vibrating motor creates a vibration of overlay 110 that can be feltby the user during the simulated treatment of the subject. Suitablevibrating motors for use as feedback device 150 include, for example, ashaftless vibration motor provided by Precision Microdrives (Model310-101; Size 10 mm).

In another exemplary embodiment, feedback device 150 is an audiblealarm. The alarm generates a sound that can be heard by the user duringthe simulated treatment of the subject. Suitable loudspeakers for use asthe audible alarm will be known to one of ordinary skill in the art fromthe description herein. Other feedback devices, or combinations thereof,will be known to one of ordinary skill in the art from the descriptionherein.

In addition to or alternatively to providing feedback to the careprovider, feedback device 150 may also provide feedback to the subjectwearing device 100. In an exemplary embodiment, feedback devices 150 maybe coupled to straps 116 of overlay 110, in order to provide feedback(e.g., vibration feedback) only to the subject, as shown in FIG. 1. Suchfeedback may be used as a signal to cause the subject to respond to thesimulated treatment in a predetermined way, without directly indicatingto the care provider that improper or undesirable treatment has beenprovided.

Where multiple sensors 140 are employed by device 100, it may bedesirable to provide different types of feedback dependent on theinformation being detected. For example, device 100 may be configured toprovide vibration feedback when excessive force or rotation is providedon tracheostomy structure 120, and may be configured to provide audiblefeedback when contact occurs in tubes 130.

In an exemplary embodiment, each sensor employed by device 100 may haveits own feedback device 150 provided in a particular location or type(e.g., in each strap 116), in order for the user and/or the subject todetermine which sensor has been triggered during the simulatedtreatment. For example, sensor(s) 140 for the tracheostomy structure 120may include a feedback device 150 in the left strap 116, and sensor 142for the tubes 130 may include a feedback device 150 in the right strap116. Other possible combinations of sensor detection and feedback willbe apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art from the descriptionherein.

Device 100 is not limited to the above-described components, but caninclude alternate or additional components as would be understood to oneof ordinary skill in the art in view of the examples below.

For example, device 100 may include a microcontroller 160. In anexemplary embodiment, microcontroller 160 is connected in communicationwith sensors 140 and feedback device 150. Microcontroller 160 processesthe information detected by sensors 140, and determines whether thesensed manipulations (force, rotation, etc.) exceed predeterminedthresholds stored by microcontroller 160. If microcontroller 160determines that any threshold is exceeded, it sends signals to operatefeedback device 150 to provide feedback to the user of device 100.

For another example, device 100 may include one or more speakers 170.Speakers 170 are positioned within overlay 110, and are configured toemit sounds during the simulated treatment of the subject. The careprovider may be trained to listen for sounds (e.g., noises within apatient's lungs) during the treatment being provided. Accordingly,device 100 may include a plurality of speakers positioned within overlay110 in locations corresponding to the areas at which the care provideris trained to listen.

An exemplary layout of speakers 170 is provided in FIG. 3. Suitableloudspeakers for use as speaker 170 include, for example, a miniaturespeaker provided by Visaton (Model: K 28 WP; Size: 8 ohm 2.3 cm). Inthis embodiment, simulated lung sounds can be auscultated in fouranatomically correct regions of the overlay 110 corresponding toanterior thorax locations, in order to simulate medical conditions suchas pneumonia, mucus build up in the upper airway necessitating trachealsuctioning, wheezing (constriction of the air passages in the lungs)necessitating simulated aerosolized medication administration, andfinally normal lung sounds indicating treatment choice was effective.Additionally, the layout of speakers 170 could include a rear surfacecorresponding to the posterior thorax, in order to allow posterior lungauscultation in 4-8 lung fields and include the same options for lungsounds mentioned above.

Speakers 170 emit simulated patient sounds that the care provider wouldexpect to hear from a patient during treatment corresponding todifferent medical conditions of the patient, as set forth above.Preferably, these sounds are quiet enough that they are inaudible to thecare provider without the use of a stethoscope.

Speakers 170 may be connected with one or more microcontrollers 172 forcontrolling the sounds emitted therefrom, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 3.Microcontrollers 172 may be located with overlay 110, or may be providedremote from overlay 110. Likewise, the connection between speakers 170and microcontrollers 172 may be wireless or wired. In an exemplaryembodiment, a trainer of the care provider may control the soundsemitted from speakers 170 during the simulated medical treatment. Thiscontrol may include the ability to control when speakers 170 emit sound,which speakers 170 emit sounds, what sounds are emitted, and how loudthose sounds are emitted. Alternatively, microcontroller 160 may controlthe sounds emitted from speakers 170 in addition to the operation offeedback device 150.

For yet another example, device 100 may include an option to simulatesecretions in the airway during treatment. During actual medicaltreatment of a tracheostomy patient, it is possible for mucus to buildup in the patient's bronchial tubes/upper airway. Such buildup mayrequirement suctioning or tracheostomy care to provide a realistic feelwhile suctioning. Accordingly, as shown in FIG. 7, device 100 mayinclude one or more reservoirs 190 adapted to store fluid having aviscosity corresponding to the mucus found in a patient. Each of thesereservoirs may include one or more valves 192 adapted to release thefluid in the one or more tubes 130. The reservoirs fluid may be releasedinto the tubes 130 by gravity feed, or reservoirs 190 may furtherinclude one or more actuators or pumps (such as peristaltic pumps, notshown) for pushing fluid into tubes 130 during the simulated treatmentof the patient. Suitable pumps and valves for use in fluid reservoirswill be known to one of ordinary skill in the art from the descriptionherein.

Reservoirs 190 containing simulated mucus may be controlled throughsubstantially the same systems as discussed above with respect tospeakers 170. For example, the valves 192 of reservoirs 190 may beelectrically coupled to and controlled by microcontroller 160 in apredetermined fashion during the course of a simulated treatment, asshown in FIG. 7. Alternatively, a trainer of the care provider maycontrol the release of fluid from reservoirs during the simulatedmedical treatment using one or more microcontrollers that are wired orwirelessly connected to the fluid reservoirs.

Exemplary Intravenous Treatment Simulation Device

FIGS. 8-10 illustrate an exemplary intravenous treatment simulationdevice 200 in accordance with aspects of the present invention. Device200 is usable to train medical care providers to perform intravenoustreatments. In general, device 200 includes an overlay 210, at least onetube 220, a reservoir 230, and a processor 240. Additional details ofdevice 200 are described below.

Overlay 210 is configured to be secured to a subject who is playing therole of the patient. In an exemplary embodiment, overlay 210 is adaptedto be worn around the subject's arm, as shown in FIG. 8. Preferably,overlay 210 can be slid onto the subject's arm in one or more pieces.Overlay 210 desirably has a thin profile, to allow overlay 210 toclosely conform to the shape of the subject's arm.

Overlay 210 is formed from multiple layers. As shown in FIG. 9, overlay210 includes a needle-resistant inner layer 212, a middle layer 214, andat least one conductive layer 216 positioned outside of inner layer 212and middle layer 214 (relative to the subject's arm). The layers ofoverlay 210 are selected to promote simulation of the intravenoustreatment while providing protection to the subject wearing device 200.Additional details regarding the layers of overlay 210 are set forthbelow.

Needle-resistant inner layer 212 prevents the subject from beinginadvertently stuck with a needle during simulation of the intravenoustreatment. Needle-resistant inner layer 212 may be formed from anyflexible fabric or material that exhibits high resistance to needlepenetration. In an exemplary embodiment, inner layer 212 is formed fromSUPERFABRIC® brand materials provided by HexArmor. Alternatively, innerlayer 212 may be formed from small rigid plates that flexibly overlapalong the contour of the subject's arm. Other suitable materials forforming needle-resistant inner layer 212 will be known to one ofordinary skill in the art from the description herein.

Inner layer 212 may be continuous, or may be formed from patches ofmaterial positioned in locations where the intravenous treatment isexpected to occur. Where inner layer 212 is not continuous, it may becoupled to a base layer 211 to provide a structure for the separatepieces that form inner layer 212. Base layer 211 may be formed from amaterial that contours to the subject's arm, such as SPANDEX®.

Middle layer 214 is positioned between the needle-resistant inner layer212 and the outer conductive layer 216. Middle layer 214 stabilizes thetube 220 of device 200. Middle layer 214 may have a thickness selectedbased on a diameter of tube 220, such as a thickness between ½ thediameter of tube 220 up to a thickness greater than the diameter of tube220, so that tube 220 can be at least partially or fully embedded orcovered by the material of middle layer 214. To this end, middle layer214 may have one or more channels defined therein for receiving tube220. In an exemplary embodiment, middle layer 214 is formed fromsilicone rubber. Other suitable materials for forming middle layer 214will be known to one of ordinary skill in the art from the descriptionherein.

Conductive layer 216 is positioned outside of inner layer 212 and middlelayer 214. Conductive layer 216 enables device 200 to determine when aneedle has been inserted into device 200, as will be discussed below.Conductive layer 216 may be formed from any flexible conductive materialor fabric. In an exemplary embodiment, conductive layer 216 is formedfrom a fabric containing a plurality of conductive filaments therein.Other suitable conductive fabrics will be known to one of ordinary skillin the art from the description herein.

Overlay 210 may further include an artificial skin layer 218 outside ofconductive layer 216. Skin layer 218 is formed from a material selectedto simulate the look and feel of a patient's skin, such as silicone.Other suitable materials will be known to one of ordinary skill in theart from the description herein.

In an exemplary embodiment, conductive layer 216 and skin layer 218 areremovable from middle layer 214 during or following use of device 200.This may be preferable in order to allow tube 220 to be removed frommiddle layer 214 for cleaning or replacement.

Tube 220 is positioned within overlay 210 beneath conductive layer 216.In an exemplary embodiment, tube 220 is at least partially embedded inmiddle layer 214 in order to prevent movement of tube 220 within overlay210. Tube 220 receives simulated blood during the simulated intravenoustreatment. Tube 220 is formed from a material such as silicone thatallows a needle to penetrate tube 220 during the simulated treatment.Tube 220 desirably stretches along a substantial length of overlay 210(e.g., from the user's wrist to above the user's elbow), in order toprovide multiple different needle insertion sites along the subject'sarm.

Tube 220 is connected at one end to reservoir 230. Reservoir 230 isadapted to store a fluid. In operation, reservoir 230 stores simulatedblood during the simulated intravenous treatment. The simulated bloodmay be, for example, formed from a combination of water and one or moreviscous gels, lubricants, or dyes to achieve the desired amount of flowand color to simulate blood. Reservoir 230 is coupled to tube 220 inorder to provide the simulated blood to tube 220.

In an exemplary embodiment, reservoir 230 is part of a syringe pump, asshown in FIG. 10. The syringe pump is adapted to apply pressure to thefluid in reservoir 230 in order to cause the fluid to flow into andthrough tube 220. The syringe pump may further apply pressure so thatthe fluid in tube 220 is under pressure during the simulated intravenoustreatment. The fluid may be maintained under pressure through the use ofone or more valves 232, as shown in FIG. 10. While a syringe pump isshown in FIG. 10, it will be understood that other structures may beutilized in connection with reservoir 230 to cause fluid to flow intoand through tube 220. Such structures include, for example, hand pumpsor peristaltic pumps.

Tube 220 may be connected at its other end to collector 234. Collector234 collects the simulated blood that has flown through tube 220.Collector 234 may include a one-way valve to prevent fluid in collector234 to flow back into tube 220. Collector 234 may include one or moredrainage outlets 236 to allow drainage of the fluid in collector 234. Inorder to drain tube 220, pressure may be applied from the syringe pumpwhen no fluid is stored in reservoir 230, in order to force air intotube 220 and cause any remaining fluid in tube 220 to be pumped intocollector 234. The connections between tube 220, reservoir 230, andcollector 234 may be internal or external to overlay 210. In anexemplary embodiment, reservoir 230 and collector 234 are external tooverlay 210 in order to provide simplified control over the pumping offluid out of reservoir 230 and/or the draining of fluid from collector234. In this embodiment, tube 220 exits overlay 210 (e.g., near thesubject's should/armpit, as shown in FIG. 8) in order to be connectedwith reservoir 230 and collector 234.

Processor 240 is coupled to conductive layer 216. By detecting signalsfrom conductive layer 216, processor 240 is configured to detect aninsertion of a needle through conductive layer 216 during the simulatedintravenous treatment. Suitable processors for use as processor 240include, for example, ARDUINO® processors. Other suitable processingelements will be known to those of ordinary skill in the art.

An exemplary operation of processor 240 in detecting a needle insertionis described below. Conductive layer 216 has a predetermined electricalresistance, which may be monitored by processor 240 by the applicationof a small voltage across conductive layer 216. During insertion of aneedle, the conductive fibers in layer 216 may be moved or displaced dueto contact with the needle. This contact with the needle changes theelectrical resistance of conductive layer 216 in a manner which may bedetected by processor 240. Processor 240 may therefore sense a change inelectrical resistance of conductive layer 216 in order to detect theinsertion of the needle.

Alternatively, processor 240 may employ another method of detection inembodiments that include multiple conductive layers 216. In suchembodiments, the multiple conductive layers 216 may be separated by aninsulating layer (such as a silicone rubber layer). During insertion ofa metal needle, the needle creates a short circuit between theconductive layers 216. Processor 240 may detect this short circuit byapplication of a small voltage to one of the conductive layers 216.Processor 240 may therefore sense a short circuit between multipleconductive layers 216 in order to detect the insertion of the needle.

Regardless of the method of detection, processor 240 is furtherconfigured to generate a signal upon detection of the insertion of theneedle. This signal is provided to the subject wearing device 200, inorder to prompt the subject to simulate or act in the role of a patientwho has been stuck with a needle. The actions or statements performed bythe subject may be predetermined by the subject or by one or morepersons responsible for the simulation.

In an exemplary embodiment, processor 240 is electrically connected to afeedback device 250. Feedback device 250 may be any of the devicesdiscussed above with respect to feedback device 150. In a preferredembodiment, feedback device 250 is a tactile signal generator, such as avibrating motor. In this embodiment, processor 240 is configured toactuate the vibrating motor to provide a tactile signal to the subjectupon detection of the insertion of the needle. This signal is preferablyprovided in real time, so that the subject can simulate the role of thepatient as the needle is inserted into device 200.

Processor 240 may be positioned with overlay 210, or may be external tooverlay 210. In either embodiment, processor 240 may include one or morewires 242 for connection with conductive layer 216 and/or feedbackdevice 250. Feedback device 250 may preferably be positioned away fromoverlay 210, so that the user performing the simulated intravenoustreatment cannot tell that a tactile signal has been provided to thesubject. In an exemplary embodiment, feedback device 250 may be coupledto the subject's torso or opposite arm, and may receive signals fromprocessor 240 through one or more wires exiting overlay 210 adjacent thesubject's shoulder or armpit.

Exemplary Catheter Treatment Simulation Device

FIGS. 11-13 illustrate an exemplary catheter treatment simulation device300 in accordance with aspects of the present invention. Device 300 isusable to train medical care providers to perform catheterizationtreatments, such as urinary catheterization. In general, device 300includes an overlay 310, a tube 320, a reservoir 330, a sensor 340, avalve 350, and a processor 360. Additional details of device 300 aredescribed below.

Overlay 310 is configured to be secured to a subject who is playing therole of the patient. In an exemplary embodiment, overlay 310 is adaptedto be worn to cover the lower portion of the subject's torso, as shownin FIG. 11. Overlay 310 desirably has a thin profile, to allow overlay310 to closely conform to the shape of the subject. Overlay 310 mayinclude any of the layers described above with respect to overlays 110and 210 in order to better simulate the appearance and feel of apatient.

Where device 300 is intended to simulate urinary catheterization, atleast a portion 311 of overlay 310 is shaped to simulate genitalia ofthe subject. An exemplary portion of overlay 310 shaped to correspond tothe genitalia of a male subject is shown in FIG. 12. This portion ofoverlay 310 includes an opening 312 sized to receive a catheter duringthe simulated catheterization.

Tube 320 is coupled with the opening 312 in overlay 310. Tube 320receives the catheter during the simulated catheterization. Tube 320 isformed from a material such as silicone that allows it to flex andexpand during the simulated treatment.

Tube 320 is connected at one end to reservoir 330. Reservoir 330 isadapted to store a fluid. In operation, reservoir 330 stores simulatedurine during the simulated catheterization. The simulated urine may be,for example, formed from a combination of water and one or more viscousgels, lubricants, or dyes to achieve the desired amount of flow andcolor to simulate urine.

Reservoir 330 is coupled to tube 320 in order to provide the simulatedurine to tube 320. In an exemplary embodiment, reservoir 330 is coupledto a compartment 332 in communication with tube 320.

In a preferred embodiment, reservoir 330 is positioned immediate beneathan outer surface of overlay 310 adjacent the portion shaped to simulategenitalia. In this region, reservoir 330 may simulate the subject'sbladder. This may desirably enable the user performing the simulatedcatheterization to palpate or scan reservoir 330 to determine thatreservoir 330 contains fluid, and that the subject should becatheterized.

Sensor 340 is coupled to tube 320. Sensor 340 may be positioned withincompartment 332, e.g., in a path of insertion of the catheter. Sensor340 is operable to detect insertion of the catheter. Sensor 340communicates with processor 360 to determine when the catheter has beeninserted beyond a predetermined threshold. The predetermined thresholdmay, for example, be based on a distance of insertion of the catheter ora force of insertion exerted by the catheter.

In an exemplary embodiment, sensor 340 senses a force exerted by thecatheter during insertion. In this embodiment, sensor 340 is in forcecommunication with a plate 342 positioned to be contacted by thecatheter during insertion, as shown in FIGS. 13A and 13B. Plate 342 maybe coupled to a spring 344, and is moved linearly against the biasingforce of spring 344 by the catheter during insertion. The base of spring344 may then be coupled to sensor 340. During insertion, sensor 340detects the force on plate 342 via the compression of spring 344, andtransmits the detected force to processor 360. The predetermined forcemay be, for example, an amount of force necessary to cause a catheter toenter a human bladder during conventional catheterization.

In an alternative embodiment, sensor 340 senses when the catheter hasbeen inserted a predetermined distance. In this embodiment, sensor 340may comprise an optical or light sensor configured to detect when thecatheter has reached a predetermined position within tube 320. Thepredetermined positioned may be, for example, an area of connectionbetween tube 320 and reservoir 330 or compartment 332. Sensor 340 maythen send a signal to processor 360 when the catheter has been insertedto the predetermined distance.

In another alternative embodiment, sensor 340 detects a change in thediameter of tube 320 to determine when the catheter has been inserted.Sensor 340 may detect the change in diameter at opening 312 to detectinitial insertion, or may detect the change in diameter at apredetermined point along tube 320, such as the area of connectionbetween tube 320 and reservoir 330. Sensor 340 may detect the change indiameter of tube 320 using one or more flex sensors positionedcontacting the outer circumference of tube 320. Sensor 340 may then senda signal to processor 360 when the catheter has been inserted.

Valve 350 is positioned to control a flow of the fluid between reservoir330 and tube 320. Valve 350 may be positioned within either tube 320 orreservoir 330, or may be positioned within a separate tube or otherstructure connecting reservoir 330 and tube 320. Valve 350 is incommunication with processor 360, such that valve can be actuated(opened or closed) by processor 360. In an exemplary embodiment, valve350 is a twist valve.

When valve 350 is opened, fluid flows out of reservoir 330 toward tube320. The fluid may flow through valve 350 under the force of gravity, orunder pressure. In an exemplary embodiment, device 300 includes apressurizing element 334 coupled to reservoir 330 to propel the fluidwithin reservoir 330 through valve 350 toward tube 320. The fluid flowsfrom reservoir 330 into compartment 332. As fluid fills compartment 332,it begins to enter the catheter under pressure from gravity and/or apressurizing element. The fluid then flows out of device 300 within thecatheter as part of the simulated catheterization treatment. Suitableelements for use as pressurizing element 334 include, for example,peristaltic pumps and/or syringe pumps.

In addition to valve 350, device 300 may also include a separate valvefor reservoir 330 in order to prevent leakage from reservoir 330 withinoverlay 310. In this embodiment, reservoir 330 may be configured to beremoved from overlay 310, e.g., for thorough cleaning and drying.

Processor 360 is coupled to sensor 340. Processor 360 is configured todetect when the catheter has been inserted into tube 320 beyond thepredetermined threshold (e.g., the force or distance thresholdsdescribed above). Processor 360 is further configured to actuate valve350 to allow fluid out of reservoir 330 and into the catheter whenprocessor 360 detects insertion of the catheter beyond the predeterminedthreshold, as described above. Where valve 350 is a twist valve,processor 360 may operate a motor 352 configure to twist the valvebetween opened and closed positions.

Processor 360 is further configured to generate a signal upon detectionof the insertion of the catheter beyond the predetermined threshold.This signal is provided to the subject wearing device 300, in order toprompt the subject to simulate or act in the role of a patient beingcatheterized. The actions or statements performed by the subject may bepredetermined by the subject or by one or more persons responsible forthe simulation.

In an exemplary embodiment, processor 360 is electrically connected to afeedback device 370. Feedback device 370 may be any of the devicesdiscussed above with respect to feedback devices 150 and 250. In apreferred embodiment, feedback device 370 is a tactile signal generator,such as a vibrating motor coupled to the subject in a position where thesubject can feel the vibration, such as within overlay 310. In thisembodiment, processor 360 is configured to actuate the vibrating motorto provide a tactile signal to the subject upon detection of theinsertion of the catheter beyond the predetermined distance. This signalis preferably provided in real time, so that the subject can simulatethe role of the patient, e.g., upon initial insertion of the catheterinto tube 320, or upon flow of the fluid from reservoir 330 into thecatheter.

Exemplary Defibrillation Treatment Simulation Device

FIG. 14 illustrates an exemplary defibrillation treatment simulationdevice 400 in accordance with aspects of the present invention. Device400 is usable to train medical care providers to perform defibrillationtreatments. In general, device 400 includes a housing 410, a display420, one or more input devices 430, and a processor 440. Additionaldetails of device 400 are described below.

Housing 410 houses the components of device 400. In order to provide arealistic simulation, housing 410 has a shape, size, and appearancecorresponding to a conventional defibrillator. Housing 410 may be formedfrom a top portion 412 a and a bottom portion 412 b. Housing 410 may beconfigured to be plugged into a standard power outlet in order to powerthe components of device 400.

In an exemplary embodiment, housing 410 matches the appearance of aCODEMASTER™ 100 defibrillator, provided by Hewlett Packard. Othersuitable defibrillators for use in modeling housing 410 will be known toone of ordinary skill in the art from the description herein.

Display 420 is coupled to housing 410. Display 420 displays an image toa user, such as information about a defibrillation treatment or thestatus of a patient. Display 420 is positioned in a display opening 422in housing 410. Like housing 410, display 420 has a shape, size, andappearance corresponding to a conventional display for a defibrillator.The selection of display 420 may be based on the type of defibrillatormodeled by housing 410. Suitable displays include, for example, liquidcrystal displays, light-emitting diode displays, or other visualdisplays known to those of ordinary skill in the art.

Input devices 430 are provided on housing 410. Input devices 430 enablethe user to input signals, instructions, or information into device 400.Input devices 430 may be buttons, knobs, dials, keys, switches, or otherstructures enabling the input of information. Like display 420, inputdevices have a shape, size, and appearance corresponding to the inputdevices on a conventional defibrillator. The selection of input devices430 may be based on the type of defibrillator modeled by housing 410.

Input devices 430 are operable by the user to simulate applying adefibrillation signal to the subject. Conventional defibrillatorsinclude input devices (such as knobs or switches) which, when actuatedby the user, cause the defibrillator to apply electrical energy to oneor more electrodes attached to a patient. Device 400 includes inputdevices 430 which, when actuated by the user, cause device 400 tosimulate the application of such a defibrillation signal. Such inputdevices 430 may include a dial for controlling a power of the simulateddefibrillation signal, and a button 432 for simulating application ofthe defibrillation signal. Device 400 does not, however, actually applya defibrillation signal. Device 400 may simulate the application of adefibrillation signal by providing simulated feedback to the user, or bysignaling the subject to provide simulated feedback to the user, as willbe discussed in greater detail below.

Processor 440 is provided within housing 410 in communication withdisplay 420 and input devices 430. Processor 440 is programmed togenerate a signal to the user that a defibrillation signal has beenapplied to the subject. In an exemplary embodiment, input devices 430include a button 432 operable by the user to simulate applying thedefibrillation signal to the subject. In this embodiment, processor 440is programmed to generate a beeping sound (e.g., using one or morespeakers) to signal to the user that a defibrillation signal has beenapplied to the subject.

In an exemplary embodiment, processor 440 is electrically connected to afeedback device 450. Feedback device 450 may be any of the devicesdiscussed above with respect to feedback devices 150 and 250. In apreferred embodiment, feedback device 450 is a tactile signal generator,such as a vibrating motor coupled to the subject in a position where thesubject can feel the vibration. In this embodiment, processor 440 isconfigured to actuate the vibrating motor to provide a tactile signal tothe subject in response to the user actuating the input device 430 tosimulate the application of a defibrillation signal to the subject. Thissignal is preferably provided in real time, so that the subject cansimulate the role of a patient experiencing a defibrillation signal inresponse to the user actuating the appropriate input device 430.

In a preferred embodiment, device 400 includes a plurality of patches460 configured to be connected to the subject. Each patch 460 is coupledto a portion 462 on the outside of housing 410 via a respective wire.Patches 460 are structured to simulate the electrodes that are attachedto a patient during defibrillation. To this end, patches 460 may includean adhesive portion for adhering directly to the subject or indirectly,e.g. via one or more layers of clothing or via an overlay. One or moreof the patches 460 may include a feedback device 450.

In addition to the above functions, patches 460 may be utilized incertain additional ways. For example, patches 460 may include electrodesfor wired coupling with processor 440 in order to detect/display thesubject's actual heart rhythm. Such information may be useful forsimulating the subject's healthy heart rhythm following the simulateddefibrillation. Alternatively, patches 460 may be configured to providefeedback regarding the correct positioning of patches on the subject oron an overlay. For example, in connection with one of the overlaysdescribed herein, patches 460 may provide a vibratory or audible signalif they are not positioned in the correct position on the overlay. Suchpositioning may be detected using known electrical or magnetic sensorsfor contact with or detection of one or more structures on patch 460.

Processor 440 is further programmed to display a heart rhythm of thesubject on display 420. The heart rhythm may be the subject's actualheart rhythm, or may be a simulated heart rhythm. In an exemplaryembodiment, device 400 further includes a memory in communication withprocessor 440. The memory stores one or more simulated patient heartrhythms for displaying by processor 440 on display 420. The storedpatient heart rhythms may include unhealthy heart rhythms (such asventricular tachycardia or ventricular fibrillation) for display priorto simulating application of the defibrillation signal, and may includehealthy, normal heart rhythms for display following the simulatedapplication of the defibrillation signal.

Processor 440 may further be configured for wireless communication withone or more computing devices external to housing 410. In an exemplaryembodiment, processor 440 includes a wireless transceiver 442 forcommunication with an external computing device. The display of heartrhythms or the simulated application of a defibrillation signal may beselected, controlled, or triggered wirelessly via the external computingdevice. Additionally, the actuation of feedback device 450 may becontrolled or triggered wirelessly via an external computing device.This set-up may enable an instructor to control the progress andperformance of the simulated defibrillation treatment.

Exemplary Thoracic Treatment Simulation Device

FIGS. 15-17 illustrate an exemplary thoracic treatment simulation device500 in accordance with aspects of the present invention. Device 500 isusable to train medical care providers to perform thoracic treatmentssuch as chest drainage. In general, device 500 includes an overlay 510,a pressure unit 520, and a processor 550. Additional details of device500 are described below.

Overlay 510 is configured to be secured to a subject who is playing therole of the patient. In an exemplary embodiment, overlay 510 is adaptedto cover at least a portion of the subject's torso, as shown in FIG. 15.Overlay 510 desirably has a thin profile, to allow overlay 510 toclosely conform to the shape of the subject's chest. Overlay 510 mayinclude any of the layers described above with respect to overlays 110and 210 in order to better simulate the appearance and feel of apatient.

In order to better simulate the torso of a patient in need of chestdrainage, the surface of overlay 510 is shaped to simulate the contourof the subject's chest, including the subject's ribs. As shown in FIG.16, overlay 510 includes an opening 512. Opening 512 is sized to beconnected with a drainage tube from a conventional chest drainagesystem, such as those sold by Atrium Medical Corporation of Hudson, N.H.

Pressure unit 520 is in fluid flow communication with opening 512 ofoverlay 510. Pressure unit 520 may be formed within overlay 510, or maybe external to overlay 510. In an exemplary embodiment, pressure unit520 is provided in a housing 521 external to overlay 510 and connectedto opening 512 via a tube 522, as shown in FIG. 15. Tube 522 entersoverlay 510 via an area adjacent the subject's armpit, and connects withopening 512 from the interior side of overlay 510. Pressure unit 520 maybe provided, for example, underneath a pillow used by the subject, inorder to conceal pressure unit 520 from the medical care provider. Ingeneral, pressure unit 520 includes a reservoir 530 and a motor 540.Pressure unit 520 may further include one or more power sources 524 forpowering motor 540. Additional details of pressure unit 520 are providedbelow.

Reservoir 530 is coupled for fluid flow with opening 512, e.g. via tube522. In operation, reservoir 530 stores air that moves into and out ofreservoir 530 to simulate respiratory air during simulated breathing ofthe subject during the simulated thoracic treatment. In an exemplaryembodiment, reservoir 530 is part of a syringe pump, as shown in FIG.17. The syringe pump includes a plunger 532 for applying pressure to theair in reservoir 530 in order to simulate the subject's breathing andcause air to flow into and out of reservoir 530.

Motor 540 is coupled to reservoir 530. Motor 540 is operable toperiodically pump air into and out of reservoir 530. In the embodimentin which reservoir 530 is a syringe pump, motor 540 includes a rod 542and adaptor 544 for coupling motor 540 to the plunger 532 of the syringepump. Motor 540 pumps air into and out of reservoir 530 by periodicallymoving the plunger of the syringe pump to change the size of reservoir530. Motor 540 pumps air into and out of reservoir 530 at a frequencydesigned to simulate the breathing of the subject, as will be describedbelow. In an exemplary embodiment, motor 540 is a stepper motor. Othersuitable motors 540 for use in connection with reservoir 530 will beknown to one of ordinary skill in the art from the description herein.

Processor 550 is coupled to motor 540. Processor 550 is configured tooperate motor 540 in order to pump the air into and out of reservoir 530in accordance with a simulated breathing pattern of the subject. Inparticular, processor 550 may operate motor 540 to pump air intoreservoir 530 to simulate the subject inspiring, and to pump air out ofreservoir 530 to simulate the subject expiring.

By periodically alternating between these two actions, motor 540 maysimulate a breathing rhythm of the subject with air flows into and outof reservoir 530. These breathing patterns may be monitored by a medicalcare provider performing the simulated thoracic treatment by monitoringair flow into and out of opening 512. Such monitoring may be used totrain the medical care provider to detect symptoms in thoracic patients,such as difficulty breathing or thoracic air leak.

The breathing pattern simulated by motor 540 and processor 550 may bethe subject's actual breathing pattern, or may be a simulated breathingpattern. In one exemplary embodiment, device 500 includes at least onesensor 560 coupled to overlay 510. Sensor 560 is configured to sense anactual breathing pattern of the subject. Sensor 560 communicates thesensed actual breathing pattern to processor 550. Processor 550 is thenconfigured to operate motor 540 to pump air into and out of reservoir530 in real time with the sensed actual breathing pattern.

In an exemplary embodiment, sensor 560 comprises a stretchable resistorwrapped around at least a portion of the subject's torso. The resistoracts as a potentiometer. As the resistor expands and contracts in timewith the subject's breathing, the resistance of the stretchable resistorchanges. The resistor expands as the subject's chest expands duringinspiration, and contracts as the subject's chest contracts duringexpiration. This allows processor 550 to sense the breathing pattern ofthe subject in time with the changing resistance of sensor 560.

In an alternative exemplary embodiment, device 500 further includes amemory in communication with processor 550. The memory stores one ormore simulated breathing patterns for use by processor 550 in operatingmotor 540. The stored breathing patterns may include unhealthy breathingpatterns (such as from patient's suffering from a thoracic air leak),and may include healthy, normal breathing patterns.

Processor 550 may be positioned with overlay 510, or may be external tooverlay 510, such as within pressure unit 520. In either embodiment,processor 550 may include one or more wires 552 for connection withmotor 540 and/or sensor 560. Processor 550 may further be configured toprovide feedback to the subject. For example, an instructor may providea signal to processor 550, in order to cause processor 550 to actuateone or more feedback devices to prompt the subject to adopt apredetermined breathing pattern, or alter their current breathingpattern in a predetermined fashion. Such feedback could be provided tothe subject using any of the structures described herein.

Combined and Other Medical Treatment Simulation Devices

While a number of separate medical treatment simulation devices aredescribed herein, it will be understood to one of ordinary skill in theart that two or more of the exemplary devices described herein may becombined in a single device. For example, the tracheostomy treatmentdevice 100 may be formed as a single device with either the intravenoustreatment device 200 and/or the catheter treatment device 300. In thesecombinations, the overlay may be expanded to include all of thenecessary components for simulating the associated medical treatments.Moreover, a full-body overlay be may created by combining the discloseddevices, in order to enable the performance of a plurality of differentsimulated medical treatments.

Although the invention is illustrated and described herein withreference to specific embodiments, the invention is not intended to belimited to the details shown. Rather, various modifications may be madein the details within the scope and range of equivalents of the claimsand without departing from the invention.

1. An intravenous treatment simulation device comprising: an overlayconfigured to be secured to a subject, the overlay having aneedle-resistant inner layer and at least one conductive layerpositioned outside of the needle resistant inner layer; at least onetube positioned within the overlay beneath the at least one conductivelayer; a reservoir adapted to store a fluid, the reservoir coupled toprovide the fluid to the at least one tube; and a processor coupled tothe at least one conductive layer, the processor configured to detect aninsertion of a needle through the at least one conductive layer andgenerate a signal upon the detection of the insertion of the needle. 2.The intravenous treatment simulation device of claim 1, wherein theoverlay further comprises a silicone layer between the needle-resistantinner layer and the at least one conductive layer, and wherein the atleast one tube is embedded within the silicone layer.
 3. The intravenoustreatment simulation device of claim 1, wherein the overlay is adaptedto be worn around the subject's arm.
 4. The intravenous treatmentsimulation device of claim 1, wherein the reservoir is adapted to applypressure to the fluid in the at least one tube.
 5. The intravenoustreatment simulation device of claim 1, wherein the processor isconfigured to sense a change in electrical resistance along the at leastone conductive layer in order to detect the insertion of the needle. 6.The intravenous treatment simulation device of claim 1, furthercomprising a tactile signal generator, wherein the processor isconfigured to actuate the tactile signal generator to provide the signalto the subject upon the detection of the insertion of the needle.
 7. Acatheter treatment simulation device comprising: an overlay configuredto be secured to a subject, the overlay comprising an opening sized toreceive a catheter; a tube coupled with the opening in the overlay; asensor coupled to the tube, the sensor operable to detect an insertionof the catheter into the tube; a reservoir adapted to store a fluid, thereservoir coupled to provide the fluid to the tube; a valve positionedto control a flow of the fluid between the reservoir and the tube; and aprocessor coupled to the sensor, the processor configured to detect theinsertion of the catheter into the tube beyond a predetermined thresholdand to open the valve upon the detection of the insertion of thecatheter into the tube beyond the predetermined threshold.
 8. Thecatheter treatment simulation device of claim 7, wherein at least aportion of the overlay is shaped to simulate genitalia of the subject.9. The catheter treatment simulation device of claim 8, wherein theoverlay further includes an outer surface adjacent the portion shaped tosimulate genitalia, and the reservoir is positioned immediately beneaththe outer surface.
 10. The catheter treatment simulation device of claim7, wherein the sensor is configured to detect a force exerted by thecatheter.
 11. The catheter treatment simulation device of claim 7,further comprising a tactile signal generator, wherein the processor isfurther configured to actuate the tactile signal generator to provide asignal to the subject upon the detection of the insertion of thecatheter into the tube beyond the predetermined threshold.
 12. Adefibrillation treatment simulation device comprising: a housing; adisplay coupled to the housing and operable to display an image to auser; one or more input devices coupled to the housing, the inputdevices operable by the user to simulate applying a defibrillationsignal to a subject; and a processor within the housing, the processorprogrammed to generate a signal to the user that the defibrillationsignal has been applied to the subject and to display a simulatedpatient heart rhythm on the display.
 13. The defibrillation treatmentsimulation device of claim 12, further comprising at least one memorycoupled to the processor, the memory storing one or more simulatedpatient heart rhythms for displaying by the processor on the display.14. The defibrillation treatment simulation device of claim 12, whereinthe one or more input devices includes a button operable by the user tosimulate applying the defibrillation signal to the subject, and whereinthe processor is programmed to generate a beeping sound to signal theuser that the defibrillation signal has been applied to the subject. 15.The defibrillation treatment simulation device of claim 12, furthercomprising a tactile signal generator, wherein the processor isconfigured to actuate the tactile signal generator to provide a signalto the subject to simulate that the defibrillation signal has beenapplied.
 16. The defibrillation treatment simulation device of claim 12,further comprising a plurality of patches configured to be connected tothe subject, the patches connected to the housing with respective wires.17. The defibrillation treatment simulation device of claim 16, whereinat least one of the plurality of patches comprises a tactile signalgenerator, wherein the processor is configured to actuate the tactilesignal generator to provide a signal to the subject to simulate that thedefibrillation signal has been applied.
 18. A thoracic treatmentsimulation device comprising: an overlay configured to be secured to asubject, the overlay covering at least a portion of a torso of thesubject and comprising an opening; a reservoir coupled with the opening;a motor coupled to the reservoir, the motor operable to periodicallypump air into and out of the reservoir via the opening; and a processorcoupled to the motor, the processor configured to operate the motor topump the air into and out of the reservoir in accordance with asimulated breathing pattern of the subject.
 19. The thoracic treatmentsimulation device of claim 18, wherein a surface of the overlay isshaped to simulate a contour of the subject's ribs.
 20. The thoracictreatment simulation device of claim 18, further comprising at least onesensor coupled to the overlay, the at least one sensor configured tosense a breathing pattern of the subject, wherein the processor isconfigured to operate the motor to pump the air into and out of thereservoir in accordance with the sensed breathing pattern of thesubject.
 21. The thoracic treatment simulation device of claim 20,wherein the sensor is configured to detect a movement of the subject'schest to sense the breathing pattern of the subject.
 22. The thoracictreatment simulation device of claim 18, further comprising at least onememory coupled to the processor, the memory storing one or moresimulated breathing patterns for use by the processor in operating themotor.
 23. A device for facilitating simulating performance of medicalprocedure on a live subject, the device comprising: an overlayconfigured to be secured to the live subject and to cover at least aportion of a body of the live subject; a simulated treatment structureconfigured to simulate a structure associated with the medicalprocedure; at least one detector coupled to the simulated treatmentstructure and configured to detect an input generated from interactionbetween a treatment provider and the simulated treatment structure; atleast one feedback device configured to provide a feedback signal to thelive subject; and at least one processor connected to the simulatedtreatment structure and the at least one feedback device, the processorprogrammed to operate the feedback device to provide the feedback signalbased upon the input generated from interaction between a treatmentprovider and the simulated treatment structure.
 24. The device of claim23, wherein the overlay has an outer surface configured to simulate acorresponding external portion of the body of the subject and an innersurface configured to lie adjacent to the body of the subject, and thesimulated treatment structure is a simulated anatomical structuredisposed at least in part between the outer surface and the innersurface of the overlay.
 25. The device of claim 24, further comprisingone or more fluid reservoirs containing a simulated bodily fluid influid communication with the simulated anatomical structure.
 26. Thedevice of claim 25, wherein the medical procedure comprises tracheostomycare, the overlay is configured to be secured to and cover at least aportion of a neck and upper torso of the subject, the simulatedanatomical structure is configured to simulate a region of a trachea ofthe subject, and the simulated bodily fluid comprises simulated mucus.27. The device of claim 25, wherein the medical procedure comprises anintravenous treatment, the overlay is configured to be secured to andcover an arm of the subject, the simulated anatomical structure isconfigured to simulate a region of a blood vessel of the subject, andthe simulated bodily fluid comprises simulated blood.
 28. The device ofclaim 25, wherein the medical procedure comprises a urinarycatheterization, the overlay is configured to be secured to and cover atleast a portion of a genital region of the subject and comprises anopening sized to receive a catheter, the simulated anatomical structureis configured to simulate a region of a urinary tract of the subject,and the simulated bodily fluid comprises simulated urine.
 29. The deviceof claim 25, wherein the medical procedure comprises a thoracictreatment, the overlay is configured to be secured to and cover at leasta portion of a torso of the subject, the simulated anatomical structureis configured to simulate a region of a thoracic cavity of the subject,and the simulated bodily fluid comprises simulated respiratory air. 30.The device of claim 23, wherein the medical procedure comprises adefibrillation; the overlay comprises a plurality of patches configuredto be connected to the subject, at least one of the plurality of patchescomprising the at least one feedback device; the simulated treatmentstructure comprises a device configured to simulate the application of adefibrillation signal, and the feedback signal comprises a tactilesignal generated simultaneously with the simulated application of thedefibrillation signal.